The cost of potholes to millions of drivers

DAMAGE: New research shows motorists paid out millions to repair car damage caused by potholes.

Published:15:46Monday 04 April 2016

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The cost of damage caused by potholes on the region’s roads is among the highest in the UK, it has been revealed.

New research shows that drivers across the country were forced to pay out £684m to fund repairs for pothole damage to their cars in the last year.

And in Yorkshire, more than 700,000 motorists hit potholes and paid out a total of £86m.

The region was among the worst in the country for pothole damage, behind London and the South East of England.

The latest study, by Kwik Fit, also reveals only two per cent of the country’s total bill was paid in compensation by councils for the damage.

Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, said: “We all understand that council budgets are stretched right across the country, but this research shows the financial burden being placed upon individual motorists.

“And that’s purely the repair bill - it doesn’t take into account the inconvenience to people in having their cars off the road for repairs.

“One pothole can cause misery for countless motorists, so it’s vital that local authorities make it as easy as possible for people to report the presence of a pothole.”

Nationally, more than six million drivers suffered pothole damage to their car in 2015.

Unlucky motorists had to pay out an average of £108.60 for repairs to tyres, wheels, suspension, exhausts or bodywork.

Last year forecasters recorded the wettest ever November-January period.

The research shows that a third of drivers who hit a pothole last year said it happened because it was hidden by water.

Mr Griggs added: “But we would also encourage drivers to do their bit by reporting the ones they see and not relying on others to do it.